Learning a language can be a real challenge for children with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, or auditory processing difficulties. But, using games at home can make this process more accessible, motivating, and effective. Studies have shown that play-based learning improves memory, attention, and how well these children remember vocabulary (Pérez-Paredes, 2022). It’s really important that parents choose games that fit their child’s specific needs, thinking about their strengths and how they learn best.
Benefits of Play-Based Learning
- Games make learning less stressful and reduce anxiety = Greater motivation
- They help children process information by combining images, sounds, and movement = Multi-sensory reinforcement
- They let children learn at their own pace without academic pressure = Building confidence
Recommended Games
Card games with picture cues
Matching games with pictures and words help reinforce vocabulary in a visual and kinaesthetic way, making it easier to understand concepts. Examples include “Memory” with words in the target language.
Interactive rhyme and song games
Children with learning differences often benefit from multi-sensory learning. Games that include music, gestures, and rhymes, like “Simon Says” in the target language, reinforce language structures and improve phonological memory (Emerge Pediatric Therapy, n.d.).
Structured role-playing games
Acting out everyday situations like going to the supermarket or ordering in a restaurant helps children practise the language in a functional context with visual and gesture support (iLab Academy, n.d.).
Adaptive educational video games
There are platforms designed to adjust the difficulty level and provide feedback on the learning process. Games like “Fun English” or “Lingokids” offer positive reinforcement and avoid frustrating children with learning differences (Pérez-Paredes, 2022).
Adapted word searches and crosswords
Making these games with key words from the language helps reinforce visual recognition of vocabulary without needing a high level of auditory processing.
References
- British Council. (n.d.). Games to learn English with children. British Council Colombia. https://www.britishcouncil.co
- Emerge Pediatric Therapy. (n.d.). Games to expand language skills. https://emergepediatrictherapy.com
- iLab Academy. (n.d.). Incorporating role-playing games into group language learning. https://ilab.academy
- Pérez-Paredes, P. (2022). Digital games and acquisition of language skills in educational settings. Dialnet. https://dialnet.unirioja.es